(KMJ) FRESNO, CA – The Susan G. Komen® Central Valley will now be holding its 18th annual Race for the Cure in Downtown Fresno, beginning with the upcoming September 17 Race.
The new course for the organization’s 2016 5K Run-Walk will make its way through the heart of Downtown Fresno, with the starting and finishing point being Chukchansi Park.
The move was announced at a press conference at Chukchansi Park, Wednesday morning, attended by Komen Central Valley Affiliate Executive Director Sharon Johnson, Komen President Jazz Sidhu, Fresno City Council Member Oliver Baines, and Fresno Grizzlies General Manager Derek Franks.
All of the speakers felt it is now more important than ever for the communities the Komen Central Valley Affiliate serves to back the organization in its continued mission to battle breast cancer.
Of the 466 local women that are diagnosed each year, an alarming 36% of those are diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer.
With the Race transition to the downtown area, the Komen Central Valley will be able to save money on the Race budget, with more funds available to be spent on life-saving programs involving education for early breast cancer detection; payment for mammograms, and diagnostics; patient navigation; and financial assistance to breast cancer survivors.
With the Race being held in Downtown Fresno there will be more space for runners, which will give it room for growth.
“36% of breast cancer cases being diagnosed in the Valley are late-stage cancer. The community needs access to breast health education and screening. It is crucial that we meet these needs.” – Sharon Johnson, Komen Central Valley Affiliate Executive Director.
It was also announced that Susan G. Komen® Central Valley will partner with the Fresno Grizzlies to present a Star Wars “Force for the Cure” Night at Chukchansi Park on June 11th.
On that day, Grizzlies players will wear themed pink jerseys, and the Grizzlies will be commemorating the event with a one-of-a-kind pink light saber offer.
“We have a longstanding relationship with Susan G. Komen® Central Valley, it’s great to partner with a great organization that is doing so many great things in the Valley.” – Derek Franks, GM, Fresno Grizzlies.
The 2016 5K Race will be co-ed this year and will begin at 7:30 a.m.
The Survivor’s Ceremony will begin at 9 a.m., and the Walk will be held at 10 a.m.
The Susan G. Komen Central Valley Race for the Cure® is an all-ages event.
Race registration and donations will begin to be accepted online at www.komencentralvalley.org beginning April 1.
For info: www.komencentralvalley.org.
